New: ‘Black Abstract,’ an Artist’s Book by Peter Spaans, to be Released in 2025
You can now pre-order the book.
In 2025, Peter Spaans will release his new book, 'Black Abstract', an impressive publication of approximately 320 pages,
featuring 101 images of black reliefs and 64 stories. The book is inspired by the form of the renowned work
Let Us Now Praise Famous Men by photographer Walker Evans and writer James Agee, first published in 1941.
In this groundbreaking collaboration, Evans and Agee chose to present their photos and texts independently,
without one illustrating the other. This separation, which emphasized the autonomous strength of both forms of
expression, also serves as the foundation for the book 'Black Abstract'.
Just like Let Us Now Praise Famous Men, the images and texts in Black Abstract function as two independent lines
that complement one another—both equally essential, but intentionally kept apart. This principle highlights the
idea that neither form should overshadow the other, but together, they tell a richer, more nuanced story.
About the Project ‘Black Abstract’
The Black Abstract project is a deliberate exploration of abstraction and essence, in which Peter Spaans created
101 black reliefs that are free from specific meaning or references. By using polystyrene and applying layers of
matte black paint, autonomous reliefs were created, expressing both simplicity and complexity.
The goal of creating one hundred reliefs provided structure and direction to the project, making it a focused and
intense artistic endeavor.
During this process, Spaans wrote 64 short stories reflecting his personal experiences throughout the creative
journey. Although these stories do not literally illustrate the reliefs, they establish a deep connection.
They offer insight into the artist’s journey and enrich the overall concept of the project, adding to its complexity.
The Book as the Next Phase of the Project
The next phase of the project involves publishing the book Black Abstract, which not only combines the images
of the reliefs and the stories, but also includes the design by an independent designer. This artist’s book aims
to go beyond being a simple catalog: it is a conceptual exploration where image, story, and design enhance each other.
By merging these three forms, the interaction between the various expressive elements is deepened.
With Black Abstract, Peter Spaans embarks on a multidimensional exploration of abstraction, storytelling,
and the autonomy of art. The book invites the viewer to discover the deeper layers of both the visual and
the narrative, transcending traditional boundaries. It is an invitation to follow the artist’s inner dialogue
and to experience the creative process in all its facets.
Digital printed book, full color, 30 x 28 cm. €75,00.
Questions? use the form below.
